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Jerry Jones enters June with three real Cowboys problems. George Pickens, the backup quarterback job, and Christian Parker’s defense all remain unfinished. Those are active camp questions, not old offseason noise.
Pickens is first. Dallas already pushed back contract talks, and the receiver is set to play on a one-year, $27.3 million franchise tag. The team has not committed to a long-term deal this offseason, which leaves Jones with another major receiver decision for 2027.
That choice protects Dallas for one season. It also keeps a top receiver tied to short-term money. If Pickens delivers again, Jones will face a pricier deal next spring. That is the current risk.
The second issue sits behind Dak Prescott. Brian Schottenheimer said Joe Milton and Sam Howell are splitting QB2 reps in minicamp. Prescott has also been limited in the team's offense, which makes the backup spot more important right now.
Dallas cannot afford uncertainty there. A clean backup plan matters in a season built around Prescott’s availability and efficiency. The battle remains open, and Jones still needs a dependable answer.
The third challenge is the defense under Parker. Dallas is still installing a new system, and the staff has made linebacker a clear concern. The Cowboys did not add a free agent linebacker, which leaves that room unsettled heading into camp.
Jones has three live tests now. Keep Pickens aligned. Find a reliable QB2. Build a defense ready in September. Those are the 2026 questions that will follow Dallas into the new season.
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